by Donnie Hurt | Jun 1, 2021 | ASSEMBLY
THRUST WATCH As engine builders we always make sure the crankshaft thrust is proper before assembling the rest of the engine. I believe we should also be measuring it again when it is in the vehicle because there are so many possible flywheel/clutch, torque converter...
by Donnie Hurt | Jun 1, 2021 | OTHER SHOP WORK
QUICK T-NUTS Start with a carriage bolt with a head diameter 1/4″ larger than the bottom of the T-slot. Be sure the bolt’s square shank fits easily into the T-slot. Chuck the bolt in the lathe, drill and tap thru the head to a depth just beyond the end of...
by Donnie Hurt | Jun 1, 2021 | CRANKSHAFTS & CONNECTING RODS
GET IT STRAIGHT When balancing crankshafts, I feel I is imperative that the crank straightness be checked and corrected for before any balance work is done to ensure accuracy. I have an offset indicator that I’ve come up with that mounts right in the mill drill on the...
by Donnie Hurt | Jun 1, 2021 | OTHER SHOP WORK
BLUE BE GONE Metal parts that are exposed to too much heat will turn a shade of Blue. I found that brushing white vinegar on the eye of the connecting rod, after heating to install pistons, removes the Blue. Put vinegar in a plastic container for dipping small parts,...
by Donnie Hurt | Jun 1, 2021 | GASKETS & SEALING
WATCH FOR THE GROUND STRAP This happens far too often. After servicing late Chrysler Hemi heads, they’re back within a day or 2. If the installer is not careful, they get the ground strap between the head and the gasket during installation. Once they are torqued down...
